Use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

• Published in: Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira (1992) 2017-07, Vol.63 (7), p.636-641
• Main Authors: Santos, Leyna Leite, Lima, Fernando José Camello de, Sousa-Rodrigues, Célio Fernando de, Barbosa, Fabiano Timbó
• Format: Magazinearticle
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0104-4230; 0104-4230
• DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.63.07.636

Summary Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world, with high morbidity and mortality rates, resulting in a greatly negative socioeconomic impact. Although there are several classes of oral antidiabetic agents, most of the patients are outside the therapeutic goal range. Objective: To review the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, focusing on their favorable and unfavorable effects, as well as on cardiovascular profile. Method: A literature search on Pubmed database was performed using the following keywords: "SGLT-2 inhibitors," "dapagliflozin," "empagliflozin," "canagliflozin." Results: SGLT-2 inhibitors are a class of oral antidiabetic drugs directed to the kidney. Their mechanism of action is to reduce blood glucose by inducing glycosuria. Extra-glycemic benefits have been described, such as weight loss, decline in blood pressure and levels of triglycerides and uric acid, and they can slow the progression of kidney disease. Genitourinary infections are the main side effects. There is a low risk of hypotension and hypoglycemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious adverse effect, although rare. Empagliflozin has already had its cardiovascular benefit demonstrated and studies with other drugs are currently being performed. Conclusion: SGLT-2 inhibitors are a new treatment option for type 2 diabetes mellitus, acting independently of insulin. They have potential benefits other than the reduction of blood glucose, but also carry a risk for adverse effects. Resumo Introdução: O diabetes mellitus é uma das doenças crônicas mais frequentes no mundo, com altas taxas de morbimortalidade, resultando em um grande impacto negativo socioeconômico. Apesar de existirem diversas classes de antidiabéticos orais, a maioria dos pacientes acometidos está fora da meta terapêutica. Objetivo: Revisar o uso dos inibidores da SGLT-2 no tratamento do diabetes mellitus tipo 2, com enfoque nos efeitos favoráveis, desfavoráveis e no perfil cardiovascular. Método: Foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica transversal com artigos científicos obtidos da base de dados Pubmed, utilizando os descritores: "SGLT-2 inhibitors", "dapagliflozin", "empagliflozin", "canagliflozin". Resultados: Os inibidores da SGLT-2 são uma classe de antidiabéticos orais com atuação no rim. O mecanismo de ação é reduzir a glicemia induzindo glicosúria. Benefícios extraglicêmicos já foram descritos, como redução de peso, pressão arteri